Chinese state-owned aircraft manufacturer COMAC has reportedly reduced its 2025 delivery target for the C919 narrowbody jet from 75 to just 25 units, Bloomberg reported citing sources familiar with the matter.
According to the report, COMAC has been facing supply chain bottlenecks, which are holding back its ambitions to increase production from an initial 30 to up to 75 units of the type this year.
ch-aviation fleets data shows that only five C919s have been delivered year-to-date: two to Air China, one to China Eastern Airlines, and two to China Southern Airlines. Financial disclosures via the Shanghai Stock Exchange indicate that Air China and China Eastern each expect ten deliveries in 2025, while China Southern anticipates 12. All three carriers hold commitments for up to 100 aircraft.
The C919 relies heavily on foreign systems and components, including avionics and engines. Bank of America analysts estimate the aircraft incorporates parts from 48 US suppliers, 26 European firms, and 14 Chinese entities.
In May, the US temporarily suspended exports of jet engines and other products to China amid escalating trade tensions. The restriction was reportedly lifted in June, allowing General Electric, manufacturer of the CFM International LEAP-1C28 engine used on the C919, to resume shipments. The company also supplies the CF34-10A engine for the C909 regional jet.
ch-aviation reached out to COMAC for comment but it was not immediately available.
